Rep. Roskam says federal regulations harm job growth

August 31, 2011

Illinois Congressman Peter Roskam says federal regulations are putting the squeeze on suburban businesses. The Republican says regulations from the Environmental Protection Agency and the Food and Drug Administration are limiting job growth and driving up business costs in Illinois.

One example of the regulations Roskam is against are new proposed rules over unhealthy food in advertisements directed to children. The FDA has proposed regulations that would require foods high in sodium or added sugar, for example, to only be advertised to audiences that are strictly adults.

Roskam says that would hit suburban companies like Sara Lee.

"When you can chase a turkey sandwich out of the super bowl, it has become an absurdity. So I would say that moving the pendulum in a different direction is healthy and is there some place to meet in the middle, I'll meet you in the middle," he said.

Roskam's position sheds light on the House Republican agenda for the fall. House Majority Leader Eric Cantor says as soon as Congress is back in session, he'll bring up legislation to help curb federal regulations. Cantor released a memo Monday chronicling his and his party's intentions. President Barack Obama is also expected to announce a job package after Labor Day.